Help Derek "Diesel" get on his feet after 30 years in prison

Help Me Rebuild After 30 Years Behind Bars

My name is Derek Johnson, but most know me as Lil Diesel. I was born and raised in New Orleans, in the Melpomene projects. At 19, I was sentenced to life in Angola for a crime I didn’t commit. Thirty years—gone. Thirty years of fighting, surviving, and holding onto hope. And finally, the truth set me free.

But freedom isn’t easy when you’re starting over with nothing. I missed my entire adulthood. I lost my mother, father, grandmother, nephew, and best friend while I was locked away. My children grew up without me. I’ve seen things most people couldn’t imagine. And yet, I’m still here. I made it out with my mind intact, and I refuse to let these years go to waste.

But I'm losing hope as jobs for an ex-felon are far and few in between. I have a vision for my future—I want to work in fashion and film, to build something meaningful, and to give back to young people who are heading down the wrong path. I want to be a voice for change. But right now, I need help getting on my feet.

I need a place to live in New York or the tri-state area. I need a car to get to work. I need a real chance to rebuild my life.

Right now, I’m working as a dishwasher, doing whatever it takes to survive. But I refuse to believe that’s all there is for me. If you believe in redemption, in second chances, in the power of a person to start over—please consider donating. Every dollar helps me move forward.

I won’t waste this opportunity. Thank you for believing in me.